“We need to get together and support each other,” this is the message of Ms Linda Stewart-Wynd, Program Adviser of the Department of Health and Human Services, during the formal launching of the Volunteering Program (“Amigos para Siempre”) of the Australian Filipino Community Services. She encouraged everyone to share their time and skills to give a better service to those in need like the elderly.
The launch was held last 29 May 2015 at the Dove Wellbeing Centre in Doveton. Some of the volunteers shared their experiences and satisfaction helping AFCS in various capacities such as food handling, assisting the elderlies, driving and managing AFCS’s programs and activities. Volunteers were also awarded certificate of appreciation.
Lorna Natividad is one of the several volunteers of AFCS. Currently a Bank Teller at ANZ Bank in Endeavour Hills, Natividad still finds time to volunteer as receptionist and bookkeeper of the group. She also helps in organising events. “To work here as a volunteer is to fulfill my life’s goal to help others and I am looking forward to continue working for the community when I retire next year,” she said.
Among the performers were the Australian Multicultural Seniors Support Group Inc and the Tamil seniors.
The event was attended by the Hispanic community, Tamil Seniors, Khmer-speaking Seniors and Filipino families and guests. Cynthia Norton, Chairperson of AFCS, also delivered a message. Filipino Chaplain Norminda Forteza served as the master of ceremony.
Chef Arman Javellana cooked special meals for the guests. Chef Arman is also a regular volunteer preparing dishes for the seniors.
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